Gulf Press

Travellers across the region are being told to double-check their flight schedules after Washington, London and Ottawa updated safety guidance for the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman and Jordan. The US Embassy indicated on July 20 that Iran could be targeting unspecified locations in central Manama, and urged Americans to stay alert and follow instructions from local authorities.

There may be a diplomatic opening amid the standoff at sea. According to sources familiar with the discussions, Iran presented two separate proposals aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for compensation from the United States. The offer reportedly came up during a visit to Tehran by Pakistani army chief Asim Munir over the weekend, suggesting backchannel conversations are happening even as public rhetoric between Washington and Tehran remains tense.

A ship has caught fire in the Strait of Hormuz, close to the Omani coastline, adding another layer of concern to an already jittery shipping corridor. The burning vessel was reported near Kumzar, based on a military report cited by the UK’s maritime agency, though full details of the cause and extent of the damage are still coming in. The incident lands at a particularly sensitive moment, with tensions between the US and Iran in the strait climbing steadily over recent days.

The US strikes on Iran intensified this weekend after Iranian missiles hit a base in Jordan. The attack killed two US service members. One more remains missing in action. President Trump vowed to “swiftly punish” Iran for the deaths. US Central Command launched fresh strikes across Iran in response. Explosions rocked the city of Bandar Abbas and nearby Qeshm Island. CENTCOM says it has now hit around 90 Iranian military targets since the campaign began.

Argentina vs Spain World Cup Final 2026 Set for Historic Showdown The Argentina vs Spain World Cup final 2026 kicks off today at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. This closes out a six-week tournament with a record 48 teams. Squads competed across the US, Mexico, and Canada. It’s the first-ever final between reigning European and South American champions. Lionel Messi, 39, plays what many expect is his last World Cup. He’s already the tournament’s all-time leading scorer.

Kuwait Airways announced a Kuwait Airways flight reschedule after Kuwait temporarily closed its airspace because of rising regional security concerns. The airline delayed, cancelled, and shifted several flights to new departure times as part of its latest Kuwait Airways schedule update. It also urged passengers to check their booking status before leaving for the airport. The temporary airspace closure forced airlines across the Gulf to reroute flights and make airline timetable changes.

The war between the US and Iran is getting worse. Iran fired missiles and drones at several Gulf countries overnight, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar. Jordan and Syria were also hit. This happened while the US carried out another round of airstrikes on Iranian military sites, making it the seventh straight night of attacks. Qatar said its air defence system stopped a missile heading toward Doha.

Oman Air and SalamAir have increased Oman Air Salalah flights for the 2026 Khareef season as thousands of visitors travel to Dhofar to enjoy its cool weather and green landscapes. The two airlines have added 192 extra flights on the Muscat–Salalah route during July, providing 35,639 additional seats. During the busiest travel days, passengers will have access to more than 4,500 seats daily, making it easier to visit one of Oman’s most popular tourist destinations.

If you’re flying through Dubai, Doha or Muscat this month, you may have seen reports about Gulf airspace disruptions. With frequent updates and changing airline schedules, it can be difficult to separate confirmed information from speculation. Although major airports across the Gulf remain open, several airlines have adjusted routes, delayed flights or temporarily suspended services because of renewed security concerns. Here’s what travelers need to know. What Happened?

Gulf stock markets closed higher on Wednesday after the United States dropped its proposed 20% shipping levy on cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The decision reduced concerns about higher shipping costs and improved investor confidence. Dubai‘s main stock index gained 1%, supported by strong performances from major companies including Emaar Properties and Emirates NBD. Abu Dhabi‘s benchmark index rose 0.4%, while Saudi Arabia‘s main market also ended slightly higher.